Janet McEwen, CAE, the director of corporate relations for the American Society of Radiologic Technologists in Albuquerque, New Mexico, once spent time as a Weight Watchers instructor.

Janet McEwen, CAE, has come a long way since selling wigs at Winkelman’s Department Store in the ’70s. Yet, the lessons learned earlier in her career remain with her today. One that sticks out: “Be nice to everyone. Today’s ‘no’ may be next month’s ‘yes.’ And today’s customer or member may be the big boss five years from now.” A few highlights from her career path:

1972 Wig salesperson at Winkelman’s Department Store

1973–1975 Garbage line worker at her college cafeteria (Alma College)

1976 Ad layout staffer for the Tawas Shopper weekly newspaper

1977 Chapter services secretary at the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP)

1979–1986 Chapter services director at ACEP

1987–1988 Weight Watchers instructor

1994–2008 Director of grants and corporate relations at ACEP

2008– Director of corporate relations at the American Society of Radiologic Technologists